vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

Look up any Duolingo word — find out how it differs between Brazilian and European Portuguese

Is the word fóssil the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The spelling, meaning, and grammatical function of "fóssil" are identical in both Brazilian and European Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Vowel quality: In Brazilian Portuguese, the "ó" is typically more open. In European Portuguese, the vowels tend to be more closed or reduced.
• The final "l": In Brazil, the "l" at the end of the word is vocalized, meaning it sounds like a "u" ([fɔssiw]). In Portugal, the "l" is more alveolar, meaning the tongue touches the roof of the mouth more distinctly.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Encontramos um fóssil de dinossauro na região. (We found a dinosaur fossil in the region.)
2. Esse sistema de leis é um fóssil do século passado. (This legal system is a fossil from the last century.)
3. O museu tem uma coleção incrível de fósseis. (The museum has an incredible collection of fossils.)
4. A ideia dele é tão fóssil que ninguém mais aceita. (His idea is so fossilized/outdated that no one accepts it anymore.)
5. Os cientistas estudam o fóssil para entender a evolução. (Scientists study the fossil to understand evolution.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. Encontrámos um fóssil de dinossauro na região. (We found a dinosaur fossil in the region.)
2. Este sistema de leis é um fóssil do século passado. (This legal system is a fossil from the last century.)
3. O museu tem uma coleção incrível de fósseis. (The museum has an incredible collection of fossils.)
4. A ideia dele é tão fóssil que já ninguém aceita. (His idea is so fossilized/outdated that no one accepts it anymore.)
5. Os cientistas estudam o fóssil para compreender a evolução. (Scientists study the fossil to understand evolution.)